By Howard Packowitz

PONTIAC – An Illinois State Police trooper based in Pontiac has died from injuries he suffered in a crash on I-74 near Farmer City.

State Police Director Leo Schmitz confirmed late Wednesday night that Trooper Ryan Albin was pronounced dead a little more than five-hours after his squad car collided with a semi in the westbound lanes of I-74 near the 155 milepost.

In a news release, Schmitz said Trooper Albin joined State Police in January 2006. Albin was assigned as the canine officer for District 6 State Police in Pontiac, a district that includes McLean County.

Police said Albin’s canine partner, Biko, was in the rear of the squad car and suffered only minor injuries.

“I extend my deepest sympathy to Trooper Albin’s family, friends, and co-workers,” Schmitz said in a prepared statement.

“I pray that those who cared for and loved him find the strength they need during this most difficult time. No further words can express the pain and loss we are all feeling.”

State Police said a preliminary investigation indicated the squad car and the semi were in traffic that had slowed or had come to a stop as they approached a merge area near a construction zone.

Police said the semi driver, who’s 47 from Normal, and his male passenger from Bloomington, 38, refused medical treatment.

District 10 State Police in Pesotum are continuing to investigate what caused the crash.

Westbound I-74 was shutdown for about four hours after the accident, which happened about 3:10 Wednesday afternoon.

Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]